by Gráinne Connolly
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is encouraging everyone to take up the chance between June and September 2018 to learn more about the Ring of Gullion from expert guidance delivered by Ring of Gullion Heritage Coach Tours.
The Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a unique geological landform, unparalleled elsewhere in Ireland or the UK.
The ring of low, rugged hills forms a ‘rampart’ around the heather-clad Slieve Gullion Mountain. The Ring of Gullion’s mysterious reputation arises from its associations with legends and the wider area’s rich archaeological heritage.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor RoisinMulgrew said,
“The Ring of Gullion Heritage Coach Tour is a great introduction to this area, a hidden gem of Northern Ireland. The Coach Tours are a very successful project of the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership Scheme, which is supported by the Heritage Lottery.
"This scheme is nearing its end, so this may be the last time that there will be as many opportunities to go on the tour.”
“It was along these roads and fields, and over these hills and mountains, that Cúchulainn and the Red Branch Knights, the O’Neills and the O’Hanlons roamed, battled and died.
"You will hear some of these stories about Fionn Mac Cumhaill, Cúchulainn and the CailleachBeara on the tour. The Ring of Gullion is alive with history, awash in scenic beauty and bursting with culture.
"Some of the tours are already booked up, so get booking your seat before it is too late. Every year, we are inundated with positive reviews for the tours.”
The Ring of Gullion Heritage Coach Tour commences 2 June 2018 until September 2018 with Una Walsh,‘the mastermind of the history of the Ring of Gullion’ as tour guide.
The coach tour leavesBagenal's Castle, Newry at 10.30am and returns at 4.30pm.
Tickets start at £15 for adults and there are concession tickets available. Booking is essential via website: www.ringofgullion.org/events.
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